Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad — Local services in Etowah

We took the 4.5 hour trip. We paid $120 (price + tax &fees) for the 9410 dome car. It Started out a nice day then rain for the remainder of the trip. A lot of leaky windows. I got a wet back, shoulder, and when the train stopped for a moment, a quick stream of water soaked my sock and shoe. The employees claimed it never happened before but the train smelled musty and there was evidence ofprior leakage (paint buckling and peeling and poor caulk-job around windows) On top of that, we had several people who would not shut up. We had difficulty hearing the overhead description of the surrounding scenery and history of the train. Why would you bring children on a four hour train ride, especially if they are scared to get on???and why pay over $400 for your family to ride and then TALK THE ENTIRE TRIP???? This family and two others were VERY RUDE. They talked the entire ride...and talked loudly. I eventually moved down below to hear the announcer and to stay dry, but that window was leaking too. One employee said it was over $3000 per window because of the age of the train but you don't need new windows, just new rubber glazing throughout. I'm sure a local could do the job. Overall, I feel it was NOT WORTH the money paid. If you do go, PLEASE purchase tickets WITH INSURANCE and cancel if rain is predicted AND go only if you have the courage to tell other people to shut-up! Go to the FARM MARKET down the...

My husband and I went on our 8th anniversary. The fall leaves were almost about to drop. The weather was beautiful. The train staff is so friendly and informative. I love the guided tour. We went on the one that was in Tennessee that last 5 hours. It was so worth the time and money. It was actually cheaper to take the 5 hour train tour then it was the 2 hour. To me the train was nicer to. All cars are AC. My husband had Parkinson’s but the tour said something about not recommended for people with walking issues or some disability. We found no problems whatsoever so ever. My husband had a walker and got up the ramp just fine. There is a little space to keep your walker or cane with you. It is cold so bring a sweater. They recommended you bring your own food on board. I agree. The only thing they have a really good snacks, drinks and a gift shop all on board. Easy to walk around as well though. This is a must do for all ages and all seasons....

We drove two hours for this experience that we wanted to try with the kids, we didn’t think it was worth the time and money … it was a 4 hours round trip for 1 hour train ride that no one explained, we didn’t know where we were at, since they was no tour guide explain anything. I was expecting someone talking to us about the trip as we were there. Santa Claus was there and it was good; we could take a picture with him but he was wearing a clear plastic shield over his face and I promise you, it was bad to look at him, that shield was gross full of saliva and sweat. Sorry. But a mask would’ve been better 100% They gave us a very bad tasting hot chocolate, a ginger bread cookie and a chocolate chip cookie… nothing was good :( Then the ladies were singing, telling bad jokes that you have to laugh at… and reading a 3 year old story. Uh nope thanks Not...